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I pause on clearing away the mess. “What’s this really about, Mom?”

She throws down the remote next to her and wipes her nose with another tissue. “I just think it's crazy. You’re dropping your life and other priorities for something that’s destined to go south.”

“What?”

Mom’s face softens as does her tone. “Luna, sweetheart, he’s a world-famous hockey star with a line of women into next Christmas. This is a summer romance that’s spilled over into fall. You’re behind with your work, and you’re neglecting others all for a man who—” She pauses and purses her lips together, clearly having second thoughts on her next words.

“Who what, Mom? What exactly are you trying to say?”

“You know I think you’re beautiful. You know I think any man would be lucky to have you. I’m just not convinced that he won’t hurt you. He only just got out of a serious relationship, didn’t he.”

I don’t say anything as I turn my back and stride into the kitchen, setting the dirty plates down by the sink. How could she be so cynical? I know I had my doubts about us at the start, but we’ve come so far. Zach is all I want, but why can’t she see that?

“Luna. I’m sorry. I know it’s not what you want to hear, but I’m just trying to protect you as your mom.”

I walk back into the living room to find her flicking through channels again.

“I just think someone like Luke might be a better fit for you. Someone more aligned to you and your life.”

“Zach isn’t like that.”

Mom looks up at me, a doubtful expression across her face. “They all are, honey.”

My frustration bubbles over. I get it. She’s been hurt by Dad. She’s also had more failed relationships than most, but to tarnish the man I love without even giving him a chance—that hurts, especially from my own mom.

“I gotta head home. Get your own groceries next time,” I snap and drop everything I was doing to make for the door.

“Luna,” Mom calls after me, but I’m done. She’s pushed me too far these past few days. The guilt over not coming back from Seattle, and now the cynicism over Zach. I’m pissed, and I need to get out before I say something I really regret.

She calls me once more before I slam the door shut and head to my car. I have a ton of schoolwork to get through, but instead of driving back to my place, I find myself heading for the beach house. Maybe the serenity will offer me the escape I need. Being there makes me feel closer to my boyfriend, and even after four months since he left, I find small traces of him here and there. He left a bottle of his cologne on the side in the bathroom, and I wonder if that was deliberate. Either way, it's replaced my usual lavender sleep mist.

Hauling my heavy school bags out of the car, I make my way up the porch and reach for the key when a very familiar voice chimes through the smart doorbell, and I almost fall back down the stairs in shock.

“Hey, baby.”

I peer through the camera. “Are you spying on me?”

“Yes.”

I laugh and slip the key into the lock.

“Hey, wait.”

“Hmm?”

“What’s the matter?” Zach’s voice comes out rushed.

“I—I’m okay.”

A moment later, my phone starts ringing in my bag, and I drop everything inside the hallway to search through it.

“Hi. Honestly, I’m okay.”

“Rocket, don't lie to me. Your eyes are puffy and red. Tell me, who upset you?”

I walk into the kitchen, set my keys on the counter, and then make my way over to the sliding doors, stepping out onto the veranda. There’s a fresh breeze since the sun is setting, and it’s pushing December.

“Just something Mom said.” I roll my lips together to fight any display of emotion.